The parent’s guide to disability: society and inclusion

As a parent, learning that your child has an impairment can bring a mix of emotions — concern, uncertainty and a desire to give them the best possible future. One of the most empowering things you can do is understand that your child is not inherently ‘disabled.’ Instead, it is society that creates barriers that disable people with impairments. By recognising this, you can advocate for a more inclusive world for your child.

An impairment refers to a condition that affects an individual’s physical, sensory, cognitive or mental functions. This could be anything from mobility challenges to visual or hearing impairments. However, having an impairment does not mean your child is automatically ‘disabled.’ Disability arises when society fails to provide the necessary adjustments and accessibility for people with impairments. This is known as the social model of disability.

In contrast, the medical model of disability assumes that the issue lies within the individual and that they must be ‘fixed’ or ‘cured’ to fit into society. The social model challenges this, arguing that it is not the impairment itself but the barriers in society that disable people. By addressing these barriers, we can create a more inclusive environment where your child can thrive.

While progress has been made in making society more accessible, many barriers still exist that may limit your child’s ability to fully participate in everyday life. Some of the most significant challenges include…

1. Physical barriers

Many buildings, public spaces and transport systems remain inaccessible. Narrow doorways, lack of ramps or lifts, inaccessible public transport and poorly designed infrastructure can make it difficult for children with mobility impairments to navigate the world freely. For more information about transport accessibility in Australia, check out the Disability Support Guide to plan your next outing.

2. Attitudinal barriers

Society’s perception of impairment can often be limiting. Misconceptions and negative stereotypes can lead to discrimination and exclusion. People may assume that children with impairments are less capable, leading to lower expectations and fewer opportunities for them to realise their potential. Please refer to this Disability Support Guide to find out more about discrimination and advocacy.

3. Educational barriers

Many schools are not fully equipped to support children with impairments. A lack of trained staff, resources, and adaptive technology can mean that children with additional needs do not receive the same quality of education as their peers. Inclusive education should be the standard, ensuring all children have access to the support they need to succeed. The Disability Support Guide Education category offers a wealth of informative articles to help you, no matter what stage you are at in your learning journey!

4. Inaccessible communication

A lack of accessible communication methods can be frustrating for children with sensory or cognitive impairments. Many online resources, public services and classroom materials are not designed with accessibility in mind, making it difficult for children to fully engage(W3C, 2023).

5. Social exclusion

Children with impairments can often experience loneliness due to inaccessible venues, transport issues or social stigma. Ensuring they have access to inclusive play areas, activities and peer support is crucial for their emotional well-being(Mental Health Foundation, 2023).

6. Employment and future opportunities

As your child grows, they may encounter difficulties in employment due to workplace discrimination or lack of reasonable adjustments. Ensuring that businesses adopt inclusive hiring practices and make necessary workplace accommodations is vital for creating equal opportunities.

As a parent, you are your child’s greatest advocate. Here are some ways you can support them in navigating and overcoming societal barriers:

• Educate yourself and others
  Understanding the social model of disability and challenging misconceptions can help change the way people view impairment.

• Push for inclusive education
  Work with schools to ensure your child receives the support they need, such as assistive technology, tailored learning plans or additional support staff.

• Encourage independence and confidence
  Help your child develop self-advocacy skills so they can confidently express their needs and rights.

• Engage with disability rights organisations
  Groups such as the Australian Federation of Disability Organisations and People With Disability Australia can provide guidance, resources and support.

• Promote accessibility in your community
  Whether you are ensuring local playgrounds are inclusive or advocating for better transport options, small changes can make a big difference.

By shifting the focus from ‘fixing’ your child to changing society’s barriers, we can create a world where all children, regardless of their impairments, have the opportunity to live fulfilling and independent lives. With your support, advocacy and the right societal changes, your child can thrive in a world that truly values inclusion and accessibility.